Jewish Family Services is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Schindler as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective December 8. A seasoned nonprofit leader with more than two decades of experience in community development, Matt brings organizational leadership, and mission-driven service to JFS.
Matt’s deep commitment to strengthening communities and a leadership philosophy grounded in optimism, collaboration, and compassion has already been felt throughout the organization.
“I am honored to support JFS,” Matt shared. “This is an organization with a powerful mission, a dedicated team, and a long history of providing stability and hope to people across our region. I am grateful for the opportunity to help guide that work forward.”
For the past ten years, Matt served as CEO of Seed St. Louis (formerly Gateway Greening), a nonprofit focused on empowering individuals and communities to grow food. Prior to Seed St. Louis, Matt spent eight years at Downtown STL, Inc. His career began abroad as a Peace Corps business volunteer in Armenia.
As Interim CEO, Matt’s focus is clear: stability, continuity, and culture.
“JFS has an extraordinary staff, people who lead with heart and compassion every day,” he said. “My priority is to support them and keep our essential services strong for the people who rely on us.”
In addition to his professional work, Matt has been an active civic leader, serving on the Parkway School District Board of Education since 2018. He also expressed deep appreciation for the community of donors, volunteers, and partners who make JFS’s work possible.
“The generosity of this community is inspiring. Whether you support the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry, fund mental health counseling, help older adults remain safely at home, or strengthen the programs that help children and families thrive, you are sustaining our mission in profound and meaningful ways,” he said.
Matt holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and German from Drury University and a master’s degree in International Relations from Webster University.
As he begins his tenure, Matt emphasizes his openness and eagerness to connect.
“I look forward to meeting our supporters, listening to your perspectives, and learning more about the impact JFS has had on your lives and in our community. Together, we will continue to strengthen this agency and the vital services it provides,” he said.